Malaise of the church under pressure of the society : An analysis of the problem and pastoral strategy in Hebrews 5:11-6:12
Abstract
This study is a contribution to the ongoing debate on the purpose and situation of the community for which the epistle to the Hebrews was written. The recipients of the letter went through several phases: proclamation, baptism, catechesis and repression in which the community showed their solidarity.
Spiritual malaise and lethargy, doubts concerning their baptismal confession and their experience of Christ being far from their problems, may be the dominant description of their present situation. Heb 5:11-6,12 is the key passage in the epistle in which the author reveals his pastoral strategy for the community.
He warns against neglecting the living word of God once spoken in Jesus Christ. Falling away from God and impossibility of second repentance is as real as hypothetic.
The writer admonishes and encourages the Christians to eagerness in faith so that they can reach their goal following Christ's example.